Although there are no known cases of Ebola in the Gambia, on September 7, before the new school term started, we held an Ebola Awareness and Prevention Community Day. The day was attended by the whole school community, including the teachers, parents, grandparents and other family members.
We sent educational, factual information to Mr. Ceesay, head teacher, which included simple, visual posters to display at the school. Diane discussed this information with him to make sure he understood it well and could teach it to others. He photocopied the poster and gave every family their own copy.
We also sent money to cover purchasing strong disinfectant soap for each child and the school. During the meeting, Mr. Ceesay explained the importance of correct and thorough hand washing and each attending family was given a free cake of strong disinfectant soap. Classroom teacher Adama demonstrated and worked with each child so they knew what to do.
We have developed clear procedures in the event that Ebola arrives in the Gambia. These include placing buckets of chlorine solution at the school doorway, to be used by all on entering and exiting the school and after all trips to the toilet, changed each day. If any family or compound has any member who becomes ill, they must inform Mr. Ceesay and keep their children away from school. Any family attending a burial must inform Mr. Ceesay and be reminded not to touch the body under any circumstances. Any child with any symptoms who arrives at school must be immediately taken to a healthcare facility. The person taking the child must protect themselves at all times. Mr. Ceesay will inform Diane immediately if he hears of any cases of Ebola in the Gambia.
Ceesay Nursery School 